Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The 8th Annual Christian Canoe Retreat on the Volga River

«What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?» (Psalm 8, 4)

This fourth verse of Psalm 8 was our slogan and the topic of our canoe retreat from June 15 to June 24. There were 19 of us from Ulyanovsk, Saratov, and Kazan as well as from Germany. We fit into eight boats. Some of us had already participated in all the previous journeys, and some took part for the very first time. With certainty one can say that every year the ride is very special: the crews of each boat, the weather and the mooring – it brings difficulties, but joy as well.
We had never before headed out with the canoes as early as the middle of June. Until the day of the departure everyone was worried that it would be too cold in these 10 days, and that we would freeze; but on the 15th of June a heat wave began and continued in the days following. For the first time in all the years we were on clean water that did not even show a trace of green haze. And most importantly, this time we had no problems with the boats on the water. Only once did we have to repair an old 3-man canoe on the water. We thank all those who helped us to purchase five new boats. This year we paddled on a few days from 10 am to 8 pm with only short interruptions. We didn’t do this because of bad weather or because of boat repairs; No, just for pleasure. Nevertheless, we had plenty of time for blessed Bible studies. We reflected on mankind and the tasks of mankind. Besides, there was enough time for games, fishing, swimming and walks on the island. For the first time a couple took part. They had never been among Christians. They were very enthusiastic. The Sunday after the trip, they visited our worship service. Now they would like to become members of the church community. We thank God for this wonderful time on the Volga. Thanks to all who helped this year to renew our fleet.

Dean Vladimir Provorov

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